Ugandan Human Rights Network for Journalists

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Joseph Mutebi, a photojournalist for the popular vernacular
state-owned daily Bukedde, spent his afternoon trying to
file a complaint with the police in the capital, Kampala. "First they told me
the officer who assaulted me was based at another station, so I went there and
now they are telling me he is based at the police station where I originally
went. So I am confused. I think they are just playing with me." Mutebi's case
is not uncommon--both in terms of the constant threat journalists face from
Uganda's police force and the challenges they encounter trying to file a
complaint.

In partnership with the Ugandan Human Rights Network for
Journalists, CPJ has written a letter to Ugandan President Yoweri Museveni
asking him to respect press freedom and end a wave of attacks against
journalists in the run-up to the February 18 general elections. At least 10
journalists have been attacked in election-related incidents since the
electoral process began in November 2010, the letter states. Media outlets that
provide a platform for opposition parties are facing intimidation, detentions,
and censorship while opposition parties are denied air time despite broadcast
licensing obligations to provide equal coverage for all presidential
candidates. You can see the letter--and the signatures of 32 other press freedom
groups--here.